8 October 2007
Sound working relations between workers and employers is the key to ensure
safety at the workplace, Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana said during his
second day of an Imbizo tour in Polokwane.
The Minister led an inspection at the Peter Mokaba stadium, a 2010 outfit as
part of a concerted effort to ensure compliance with the Occupational Health
and Safety regulations.
"It is important for workers to take responsibility of their health and
safety. For this reason, it's critical to have in place workplace safety
representatives. The Department of Labour inspectors cannot be everywhere all
the time."
The Minister also carried out a similar inspection at the Limpopo South
African Breweries plant. He commended the company for complying with
Occupational Health and Safety regulations. He encouraged the management to
improve on compliance with employment equity especially in regards to employing
women and disabled people.
Earlier the Minister visited two self-help projects funded by the Department
of Labour for training in basic business management skills, baking and
agriculture. He expressed concern at what he saw as the stumbling blocks to the
projectsâ progress.
"The problem is people do not know what government is capable of helping
them with. I have taken it upon myself to approach relevant departments to help
them."
Enquiries:
Zolisa Sigabi
Cell: 082 906 3878
E-mail: zolisa.sigabi@labour.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Labour
8 October 2007
Source: Department of Labour (http://www.labour.gov.za)
